Selling a non-running car: condition, access and transport

Define non-running without diagnosing it

State what happened and when you last observed it. Does not start, not attempted since damage and starts but not driven describe different situations. If a workshop diagnosed a fault, record the wording, date and report availability. Do not convert a clicking noise, flat battery or warning message into a definite engine or gearbox failure without evidence.

There is no need to start or move a damaged car simply to make a more complete advert. If starting has been discouraged by a professional or the car has visible damage that raises concern, record do not attempt and seek appropriate assistance. In particular, do not work on a damaged electric or hybrid battery or follow improvised online energising instructions.

• Separate observed behaviour from a confirmed diagnosis.
• Mark untested functions as unknown.
• Record missing keys and parts without attempting risky checks.

Describe access before agreeing a collection

Tell the prospective transporter whether the vehicle is in a garage, on a driveway or in another location, and whether you have permission to remove it. Describe known restrictions such as gates, low entrances or limited space. Share only the location detail needed through an appropriate private channel, not a public advert containing your full routine and personal information.

Mention known wheel, steering or brake issues and whether keys are available. These details can affect equipment and loading arrangements. The transporter must assess the method; this guide cannot establish that a vehicle will fit a particular truck or can be moved without specialist assistance. Do not improvise towing or push the car into an unsafe position to make access easier.

Make transport terms part of the offer

Ask who is arranging transport, who is paying and whether any charge is deducted from the offered amount. Confirm what happens if the driver finds a different condition from the agreed description, or if you reject a changed offer. A statement of free collection needs its conditions explained; it is not a universal feature of damaged-car sales.

Use written figures to compare offers consistently. Enter zero transport deduction only when it is confirmed, not because the subject was omitted. Avoid counting a separately invoiced charge twice. The local comparison tool simply subtracts entered deductions; it does not quote transport rates, estimate mileage charges or identify an available recovery operator.

Resolve records and handover separately

Check authority to sell, insurer involvement and outstanding finance before promising the car to someone. Keep an older MOT record in context: GOV.UK’s history service reports previous tests, not the safety of a vehicle after it stopped running or suffered damage. An engine that restarts does not resolve insurance, tax or roadworthiness questions.

Agree payment, release of keys and the written sale record directly with the verified buyer. Follow DVLA’s current sale notification instructions once the transfer occurs. If the decision is scrapping rather than sale for repair, use an authorised treatment facility and the official scrapping process. Do not let a vague claim that the driver handles everything replace checking the route and keeping confirmation for your own records.